Despite various criticisms, one thing Virat Kohli has undeniably achieved is keeping fans engaged in Test cricket. Often seen as the slowest and least exciting format, Test cricket gave way to ODIs, T20s, and now The Hundred.
Yet, Kohli, with his fiery personality, aggressive demeanor, and never-back-down attitude, made Test matches thrilling to watch. He brought energy and charisma to the format, something rare before his era in Indian cricket.
Now, the spotlight seems to be shifting to Rishabh Pant, a cricketer with a completely different vibe. Known for his fun-loving attitude, cheeky banter, and unorthodox yet thrilling shot-making, Pant has captured fans’ attention in his own style.
Former India opener Virender Sehwag believes Pant is the next big crowd-puller in Test cricket. Speaking to Cricbuzz, Sehwag stated, “After Virat Kohli, if there’s one cricketer who can bring people to the stadium to watch Test cricket, it’s Rishabh Pant.”
The BCCI has already revealed an 18-member squad for the upcoming five-match Test series against England, beginning June 20 at Headingley. While Shubman Gill has been named captain, Rishabh Pant has been chosen as the vice-captain—a significant show of trust in his leadership and impact on the game.
Pant recently played in the Border-Gavaskar series, where he scored 255 runs from nine innings. His gritty performance included a 61 off 33 balls and a patient 40 off 98 deliveries in the Sydney Test, showing both his aggression and defensive capabilities. Despite taking hits on the body, Pant demonstrated resilience and fighting spirit, winning praise from all quarters.
In his Test career so far, Pant has scored 2,948 runs in 43 matches at an average of 42.11, with six centuries and 15 half-centuries. Impressively, four of his centuries have come in overseas conditions, including a brilliant 146 at Edgbaston in 2022. With a proven record and a unique flair, Rishabh Pant seems poised to carry the torch of keeping fans excited about Test cricket, just like Kohli once did.